With the 2021 NFL trade deadline right around the corner, there are quite a few teams who will look to swing big as they look to secure their status as contenders. One of those teams could be the Indianapolis Colts, who improved to 3-4 with a big win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football this past week. A major need they have is at wide receiver and New Orleans Saints star wideout Michael Thomas could be an ideal trade target.

Thomas’ future with the Saints is very much up in the air. He has had major issues with the franchise recently and trade rumors have been swirling. If the Colts want to make a big move at the deadline, this could be the ideal one to make.

One NFL executive spoke to NFL Analysis Network about the Colts’ deadline needs and mentioned Thomas specifically as someone they should try to trade for.

“When you look at the Colts, they’re really just missing a true No. 1 wideout in the offense. T.Y. Hilton can’t stay healthy, (Michael) Pittman Jr. is good, but isn’t there yet. If they were to go out and make a move for Michael Thomas, their offense would be extremely powerful and (Carson) Wentz’ job would be much easier.”

Trading for Thomas is certainly an intriguing move to think about for the Colts. They have lacked a true top wide receiver for years now. With Hilton ailing and Parris Campbell very possibly done for the season, the need is there.

So far this season, Thomas has not played in a single game due to an ankle injury. No one knows his potential return date, but he isn’t expected to miss the entire season. If that is the case, the Colts could trade for him at a very low value and get him back later on in the year to make a serious run at the postseason.

Last season with the Saints, Thomas ended up playing in just seven games. He caught 40 passes for 438 yards, but did not score a touchdown. There is no denying the talent that Thomas possesses, but his health status is a major question mark.

All of that being said, this would be a low-risk and high reward trade for the Colts. If Michael Thomas can get healthy, he could be the piece that takes the Indianapolis offense back to an elite level.